Cooking on the cheap shouldn't mean minute rice and buttered pasta every night. With a little creativity and a little planning, Gabriella Paiella shows us how to make the most of a tight budget -- without sacrificing flavor or variety.
Today: Ring in the New Year on a budget.
I don't know about you, but by the time Christmas rolls around, all I can think of is the following week's New Year's Eve celebration. There's the relief of all the holiday stress that comes with shopping and cooking and traveling being over -- and you get to dress up and drink Champagne to boot.
Food and drinks for New Year's Eve should still be as indulgent as the rest of the holiday season (your resolutions haven't kicked in quite yet), but not nearly as time-intensive to prepare. Here's what to make to usher out 2013 without blowing your 2014 budget:
Party Mix for Grownups
Bruschetta with Ricotta, Honey and Lemon Zest
Broccoli Rabe, Potato and Rosemary Pizza
Divine Gluten-Free Chocolate Cookies. No Seriously.
And the most important part…buy several bottles of sparkling wine. Set a few aside to mix with gin or infused booze for cocktails, use the rest to toast. Cheers!
Tell us: What are your favorite cheap, easy-to-prepare New Year's Eve snacks?
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